Summer Reading Starts June 23
School is (almost) out and summer reading is in at Albany Public Library. From June 23 to Aug. 30, APL encourages kids and teens to read by providing prizes and hosting special activities.
Librarians and educators have long encouraged kids to read every day during the summer, even if it’s just for 10 minutes a day. Students who read over those long summer months are less likely to fall behind when school starts up again in September.
Kids and teens register for the APL Summer Reading Program and record their reading in person at any Albany library branch. Participants are rewarded for how much they read with incentive prizes.
The 2018 APL Summer Reading Program is sponsored by the Friends of Albany Public Library, Price Chopper and Market 32, and Stewart’s Shops.
APL also has more than 100 special activities and events scheduled during the ten-week Summer Reading Program across the city’s library branches, all designed to keep kids and teens engaged during the break from school.
There are also more than 300 weekly storytimes and game programs, like LEGO Club, Mystery Lab, and Garden Club, available in July and August. All programs and activities are free.
Here are just a few upcoming summer reading events. Details and complete listings are on the Events Calendar.
Summer Reading Kickoff
June 23 | Saturday at 12-5 pm | All APL Branches
Enjoy treats, do fun activities, and sign up for the Summer Reading Program. For ages 5-17. See the library’s online Events Calendar for details about each branch’s special activities.
Stories & Art in the Park
July 9, 16, 23 | Aug. 6, 13 | Mondays at 10:30 am | Washington Park Playground
The library and City of Albany Department of Recreation, with help from Albany Barn and WMHT PBS Kids, host active storytimes and art activities in beautiful Washington Park. For children ages 0-5.
Storytime on a Bus
July 25 | Wednesday | Times & branches TBA
Little ones experience a special storytime on a CDTA bus where they’ll hear stories and sing songs, including, of course, “Wheels on the Bus.” Check the library’s online Events Calendar for times and locations.
Stephanie Simon
Stephanie Simon is manager of APL's Communication and Creative Services Department, which provides content and information for the library's website, social media, publications, videos, podcasts, and other outlets. Stephanie also manages APL's public relations and marketing efforts.